Dame Kelly Holmes was made Honorary Colonel of the Royal Armoured Regiment Training Corps in Bovington today.

The double Olympic champion is the first person outside of the royal family to ever be assigned the role in a regular regiment. Up until now, members of the public have only been allowed assigned to reserve regiments.

Dame Holmes says “I’m the first ever honorary colonel to a regular unit. It was signed off by the Queen. It’s changed Army policy. I’ve got to be very proud of that but hopefully it leads the way for others to be in this role.”

Her Majesty the Queen granted approval for Dame Holmes to receive the honorary appointment earlier this year.

Secretary of State for Defence, Gavin Williamson told Wessex FM: “Well, we’ve completely ripped up the rule book for her. I think someone who has constantly proven herself… and someone who has constantly achieved to the absolute very top, it’s absolutely fitting.”

She says it’s not clear exactly what the nature of her role will be at the moment, but her first appointment in the role will be appearing for Remembrance Day.

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